Bordeaux isn’t just about wine — although, let’s be honest, that’s a big part of its charm. The city’s charm lies in its blend of historic architecture, lively streets, and surrounding vineyards that beg to be explored. Whether you’re a wine lover, history buff, or simply after a taste of local life, Bordeaux offers a wealth of tours that turn your visit into a memorable adventure. We particularly love the Saint Emilion Day Trip with Sightseeing Tour & Wine Tastings for its perfect mix of wine, history, and picturesque streets. It embodies what makes Bordeaux special: fine wines, UNESCO-listed villages, and expert guides eager to share their passion.
If you want a quick, affordable introduction to Bordeaux’s wine culture, the Cité du Vin Entry Ticket and Wine Tasting is a fun, interactive experience that celebrates wine as a cultural treasure. For those who prefer cycling, the Bordeaux by Bicycle: a 3-hour tour offers a lively way to see the city’s neighborhoods and learn its secrets from a local guide. Whatever your style, Bordeaux’s array of tours ensures you’ll find something that matches your interests and pace.
1. Saint Emilion Day Trip with Sightseeing Tour & Wine Tastings from Bordeaux
At number 1, this full-day Saint Emilion wine region trip captures the essence of Bordeaux’s famed vineyards. The tour includes visits to two chateaux for wine tastings, along with a guided 45-minute walk through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed village. The guides are praised for their knowledge, and guests love visiting small, family-run chateaux that offer an authentic taste of French wine-making. The itinerary balances vineyard visits with plenty of time to wander the charming streets of Saint Emilion, making it ideal for wine enthusiasts who want a comprehensive experience. Expect to spend about 8 hours exploring Bordeaux’s most famous wine area with expert guidance.
Guests often mention the knowledgeable guides and the enjoyable mix of wine and culture. A typical review states, “Our guide was very passionate about the region, and visiting three different vineyards made this a fun, educational day.” It’s perfect for those who want a deep dive into Bordeaux’s wine heritage with a comfortable, well-organized experience.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a well-rounded day of wine tasting, sightseeing, and culture, perfect for wine lovers eager to explore Bordeaux’s top appellations.
2. Bordeaux: Cité du Vin Entry Ticket and Wine Tasting
Number 2 on our list, the Cité du Vin is an ideal choice if you want a self-guided, interactive experience celebrating wine as a cultural phenomenon. For just $26, you gain entry to a museum dedicated to the global history and culture of wine. The space is lively, featuring 18 exhibits, a panoramic belvedere on the 8th floor, and a diverse selection of about 15 wines for tasting. Visitors appreciate the digital travel companion that guides you through the exhibits, making the experience both fun and educational.
The highlight is the opportunity to enjoy a glass of wine while soaking in stunning views of Bordeaux — a simple, yet memorable way to deepen your appreciation of wine. This tour is perfect for curious travelers who want to learn without the commitment of a multiple-venue tour and enjoy a relaxed, sensory experience.
Bottom Line: A budget-friendly, immersive visit that masterfully combines education and tasting, ideal for those interested in wine’s cultural significance.
3. From Bordeaux: Afternoon Saint-Emilion Wine Tasting Trip
Number 3 offers a more focused visit — the Afternoon Saint-Emilion Wine Tasting Trip combines vineyard visits with a taste of Bordeaux’s best reds. The tour includes a visit to a Grand Cru Classé estate, where you’ll taste 3 or 4 wines. The guide shares insights into the wine-making process, and you’ll learn about the region’s unique “terroir” that influences each bottle. The tour also features a guided walk through Saint Emilion’s medieval streets, giving you a glimpse of history alongside your wine tasting.
Guests rave about the knowledgeable guides and the balance of educational content and relaxed tasting sessions. The tour lasts about 4.5 hours, making it ideal for those with limited time but a serious interest in Bordeaux wines.
Bottom Line: This tour is suited for wine enthusiasts who want a quality experience with a focus on one of Bordeaux’s top appellations, paired with a walk through a UNESCO-listed village.
4. Bordeaux: River Garonne Cruise with Glass of Wine and Canelé
Number 4, the Garonne River cruise, offers a different perspective—viewing Bordeaux from its great river. The 1.5-hour cruise includes live commentary and a glass of regional wine, with the bonus of tasting the famous Canelé. The rooftop boat provides 360° views of landmarks like the Bordeaux Cathedral, Place de la Bourse, and the Miroir d’eau. Guests enjoy the relaxed pace, with air conditioning and an open bar.
This tour is an excellent way to unwind and see the city’s highlights from the water, especially as the sunset paints Bordeaux in warm hues. It appeals to travelers who prefer a casual, scenic experience paired with local treats.
Bottom Line: Ideal for a romantic evening or relaxed sightseeing, combining city views, regional wine, and a sweet treat.
5. Saint-Emilion Electric Bike Day Tour with Wine Tastings & Lunch
Number 5 is a fantastic choice for active wine lovers — the Electric Bike Day Tour combines cycling, sightseeing, and wine tasting. Starting from Bordeaux, you’ll pedal through vineyards and visit two wineries for tastings, plus enjoy a picnic lunch amid the vines. The tour is limited to 10 people, ensuring a personal touch, and the electric bikes make the rolling hills manageable even for beginners.
Guests praise the guides for their enthusiasm and the scenic ride that takes you through Bordeaux’s most beautiful wine country. The visit to a family-run estate and the chance to sample local varietals make it stand out, as does the relaxed pace.
Bottom Line: Perfect for active travelers who want to combine exercise, culture, and great wine in one memorable day.
6. Saint-Emilion Afternoon Tour – 2 Wineries, tastings & delicacies
Coming in at number 6, this small-group Saint-Emilion afternoon tour offers a well-paced exploration of both the town and its vineyards. You’ll visit two wineries, including a Grand Cru, with tastings and a guided walk through Saint Emilion’s medieval streets. The inclusion of local cheeses and delicacies makes this more than just wine tasting; it’s a culinary journey.
Guests often highlight the intimate atmosphere and the knowledgeable guides that make each visit special. With a duration of about 5.5 hours, it’s suited for travelers seeking a relaxed yet enriching experience.
Bottom Line: A balanced combination of wine, culture, and local cuisine, ideal for small groups seeking a personal touch.
7. The Most Complete and Best Rated Tour of Bordeaux
Number 7 is the most comprehensive Bordeaux tour, covering key landmarks in just 2-3 hours. It includes highlights like the Grand Théâtre, Place de la Comédie, and Bordeaux Cathedral — all with quick stops and insightful commentary. The tour is perfect if you’re short on time but still want a broad overview of the city’s architecture, history, and charm.
Guests appreciate the guide’s enthusiasm and the relaxed pace, which allows you to customize your experience. This tour is especially suited for first-time visitors who want to get their bearings without a full-day commitment.
Bottom Line: A quick, lively introduction to Bordeaux’s top sites, great for a morning or afternoon outing.
8. Bordeaux by Bicycle: a 3-hour Tour Immersive Experience
Number 8, the Bordeaux bike tour, is perfect if you prefer active sightseeing. It covers 9 miles of the city’s main sights like Jardin Public, Bordeaux Cathedral, and the Grand Théâtre, with a knowledgeable guide sharing stories along the way. The small group size (max 12) ensures personal attention.
The tour is praised for its scenic routes and the chance to see less accessible areas of Bordeaux. It’s ideal for travelers who want to cover a lot in a short time and enjoy some outdoor exercise. Plus, the guide’s commentary makes each stop more meaningful.
Bottom Line: Great for active explorers who want a broad, energetic view of Bordeaux’s highlights in just a few hours.
9. Bordeaux: Historic Center & Chartrons District Bike Tour
Number 9 takes you through Bordeaux’s most charming neighborhoods on a guided e-bike or bike tour. It combines a ride through the historic center with visits to the trendy Chartrons district, offering insights into the city’s development and lifestyle. Highlights include the Bordeaux Market, the Big Bell of Bordeaux, and the picturesque streets of Saint-Pierre.
Guests love the mix of historic sights and local flavor, plus the convenience of a guided tour that reveals hidden corners. It’s a relaxed way to get a feel for Bordeaux’s evolving neighborhoods.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want to explore Bordeaux’s top neighborhoods with a mix of history and local culture.
10. Bordeaux: Small-Group Electric Bike Wine Tour Tastings & Lunch from Bordeaux
Number 10, the Small-Group Electric Bike Wine Tour, offers an expansive day in Saint-Emilion. It combines a guided walking tour of the UNESCO village with a scenic e-bike ride through vineyards. You’ll visit a family estate for a tasting and enjoy a traditional French picnic at a Grand Cru Classé winery.
Guests highlight the knowledgeable guides and the stunning scenery, with reviews noting the seamless blend of activities. The small group size makes it a personal experience, perfect for those wanting a more relaxed, immersive day.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for active wine lovers wanting variety, scenery, and authentic tastings in one package.
11. Bordeaux: Guided Bike Tour
Number 11, the Guided Bike Tour, is a fantastic way to see Bordeaux’s core in 2.5 hours. It covers major sights like the Big Bell, Bordeaux Cathedral, and the Chartrons district, with a local guide sharing stories and insights. Guests say the guide’s enthusiasm and knowledge make the tour engaging and memorable.
The vintage bikes add a touch of charm, making it suitable for those who want to explore actively but at a comfortable pace. It’s especially good for first-timers who want a snapshot of Bordeaux’s highlights.
Bottom Line: A lively, informative option for a short but rich city overview, perfect for a morning or afternoon.
12. Bordeaux: Saint-Emilion and Medoc Full-Day Wine Experience
Number 12 offers a dual-region exploration—Saint-Emilion and Medoc. It visits 3 wineries, tasting a total of 8 wines, including a picnic at a Château. The tour combines the UNESCO-listed village with a drive across Bordeaux’s famed Medoc vineyards, including a quick stop at Margaux.
Guests appreciate the variety of wines tasted and the chance to see two top Bordeaux regions in one day. The guide’s expertise helps bring each estate’s story to life.
Bottom Line: Best suited for serious wine enthusiasts who want a broad taste of Bordeaux’s diverse wine areas with a relaxed pace.
13. From Bordeaux: St. Emilion Village Half-Day Wine Tour
Number 13, the St Emilion Village Half-Day Wine Tour, is perfect for those short on time but eager to enjoy Bordeaux’s iconic vineyard and village. It includes a visit to a classified growth château for tasting and a guided walk through the medieval streets.
Guests note the tour’s well-organized schedule and the knowledgeable guide who makes the visit memorable. It’s a good choice for a quick but authentic taste of Bordeaux wine culture.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers wanting a concise experience combining wine tasting and village exploration.
14. Full-Day Tour to Saint-Emilion and Medoc, from Bordeaux
Number 14 is a comprehensive full-day Bordeaux wine tour that hits two major wine regions. It includes a guided tour of Saint Emilion, tastings at three wineries, a picnic lunch, and a quick visit to Margaux. The small group format and detailed itinerary make it a serious wine adventure.
Guests appreciate the chance to compare different Bordeaux styles and the guide’s insights. It’s best for those wanting an in-depth day with plenty of tastings and scenic drives.
Bottom Line: For wine connoisseurs who want a full, varied experience with expert guidance, this tour fits the bill.
15. Bordeaux CityPass
Finally, the Bordeaux CityPass offers a flexible way to explore the city’s cultural sites and museums. It includes unlimited public transport, free entry to top attractions, and options like boat rides and guided city tours. It’s perfect for travelers who want to explore at their own pace and include a mix of sightseeing and culture.
Reviewers find it excellent value, especially for longer stays, with access to Bordeaux’s main sights and museums for a fraction of the cost. It’s best for those on a city break who want variety and flexibility.
Bottom Line: A versatile option for culturally curious travelers seeking maximum flexibility and value.
How to Choose the Right Bordeaux Tour
Choosing the best tour depends on your interests, budget, and how much time you want to spend exploring. For wine enthusiasts, the Saint Emilion Day Trip and the Full-Day Bordeaux & Medoc Experience are excellent options. If you prefer exploring Bordeaux city itself, the guided bike or city tour are practical choices. For a relaxed, scenic experience, the Garonne River cruise combines city views with regional treats.
Consider your fitness level — the electric bike tours are perfect if you want to cover more ground without the physical strain. Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the Cité du Vin or the CityPass, which pack in a lot of value. Booking early is advisable, especially in high season, to secure your preferred dates and tours.
Bordeaux offers a variety of ways to experience its wine, history, and culture. Whether you’re after a full-day vineyard tour, a brief city overview, or a scenic cruise, the options above help you tailor your visit. For lovers of vino, history, or active exploration, these tours ensure you won’t leave Bordeaux without feeling like you truly experienced its soul. Don’t wait — book early and prepare for a memorable adventure in one of France’s most charming cities.